SEPA direct debit return
8 weeks from the account debit (authorised) – up to 13 months for an unauthorised direct debit
Deadline
8 weeks from the account debit (authorised) – up to 13 months for an unauthorised direct debit
What you need to know
For a SEPA core direct debit for which you granted a mandate, you can reclaim the debit from your bank within 8 weeks of the debit date without giving any reason (refund claim under § 675x of the German Civil Code, BGB). If there was no valid mandate at all, or it was not granted properly, the deadline extends to 13 months from the debit. This return works regardless of whether the shop is a fake – it applies to any direct debit.
How to get your money back
- 1Check the exact debit date of the transaction in your online banking or on your account statement.
- 2Contact your bank/savings bank immediately (by phone, in a branch or via the online-banking form) and request the “return of the direct debit” or “refund under § 675x BGB”.
- 3For an authorised direct debit, a simple objection within 8 weeks is enough – no justification is required.
- 4If there was no mandate: demonstrate this to the bank (e.g. because you never agreed to any direct debit) – then the 13-month deadline applies.
- 5Have the reversal confirmed in writing and keep the proof for a possible criminal complaint.
Legal note
The legal basis is § 675x BGB in conjunction with the SEPA rulebook of the European Payments Council. The right of return exists against your own bank, regardless of the payee’s conduct.
How much time do you have left?
Use the deadline calculator: enter the purchase date, choose the payment type, and see the remaining time instantly.
To the deadline calculatorOther payment types
View all payment typesPayPal Buyer Protection
180 days from the payment date
View guideCredit-card chargeback (reversal)
deadline depends on the bank, card network and dispute reason – ask directly
View guideKlarna Buyer Protection
check the deadline and payment plan in your Klarna account; report promptly
View guideThis overview is independent, editorial consumer information and does not replace legal advice. All information is provided to the best of our knowledge and without guarantee – the terms and conditions of the respective payment provider or the conditions of your bank or savings bank are always authoritative. In specific cases, contact a consumer advice centre (Verbraucherzentrale) or a lawyer specialising in contract law. The deadlines described here reflect the German legal situation.